The design world is always under a constant state of change. Sometimes the new design intention is obvious and immediate, others we question if design may even exist! This year, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show experienced such controversy. The Best Show Garden went to a design that showcases many of the trends we see occurring in the design world. Whether it was displayed in a cohesive and attractive fashion is up to the viewer.

The ongoing trend in landscape design nationwide has been the concept of “opposites attract” for a few years now. For example, modern elements are mixed with traditional figurines, crisp boxwood edges confine wild arrangements, and square forms mixed into curvilinear planting beds. These design statements still hold true but a few changes are starting to emerge.

1.      Landscaping with native plants is more acceptable now than ever. Mixing native varieties into a landscape full of traditional cultivars is a quick way to add durability and uniqueness to any garden.

2.      Narrow trees and shrubs are in great demand. Nurseries are working hard to develop upright varieties of almost every tree out there. With landscape space at a premium, this trend will not change any time soon.

3.      “Edible Landscapes” are becoming common practice. Whether you are planting fruit trees, or growing a vegetable garden, almost everyone is open to the idea. The same could not be said five years ago. People are beginning to understand the importance of buying local produce, which in turn encourages them to experiment on their own.

With the shifting economy, the most common local trend has been to renovate an existing landscape. People are planning on staying in their homes for longer durations, so creating a viable master plan is more important than ever. In a recent survey sponsored by the American Society for Landscape Architects, the three most popular requests were landscape lighting, firepits, and low maintenance landscapes.

The most significant local horticultural trend has been to add larger flashes of color throughout the mixed borders through both bloom and foliage. “There is a bit more demand for orange than in past years. It’s a great flower color combined with blue foliage plants; such as Mandarin Lights Exbury Azaleas and Sieboldiana Elegans Hosta.” says Susan Mertz of Loma Vista Nursery. Repeat bloomers such as the new Bloomerang Lilac are also quickly becoming popular.

Competition between local landscape companies has never been more intense. Fewer commercial landscapes are being installed, so many of the larger companies are moving their crews into residential work. This shift in work force has brought considerable savings to the homeowner. With plant prices at an all-time low and competition high, there has been no better time to have your landscape installed.